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March for Science on April 22 in Bonn

19/04/2017

RWTH Rector Schmachtenberg will be speaking at the largest demonstration in Rheinland as part of the worldwide demonstration for science.

The March for Science will take place worldwide this coming Saturday, April 22, 2017, to demonstrate and support the value of research and science in lights of a growing international populism. The March for Science in Rheinland will be held in Bonn. The event organizers emphasize that these demonstrations are non-partisan and are not being put on by institutions. They also emphasize that constructive dialogue is an elementary foundation of our democracy and concerns our entire society. Thus, all are invited to participate, not just scientists. The march will begin at 12 noon at the Hofgartenwiese in Bonn, Pacis-Weg 3 – see link below for directions – and is expected to end at 3pm.

RWTH Rector Ernst Schmachtenberg will be speaking at the event, thus protesting hostility against science: "We are fighting for science! We cannot allow scientifically founded facts to be disclaimed and relativized. We cannot allow lies or so-called alternative facts to become the foundation for decisions in politics, society, and the economy. We cannot sway from the principle that knowledge remains the foundation of our actions. When we see scientific freedom abolished and the very existence of scientists threatened, we must take a stand and send a signal!"

Supporters of the demonstration include German Nobel prize recipients; directors of large German research organizations; numerous well-known individuals from science, politics, and culture; and many others, for whom scientific freedom is important. Svenja Schulze, NRW Minister of Innovation, Science, and Research will also be speaking at the event in Bonn.